Bluebull, also known as Nilgai in Hindi is the largest antelope occurring in Asia. It is endemic to the Indian subcontinent, inhibiting parts of India, Pakistan and Nepal. It’s commonly distributed in the planes of north India and occurs along the southern boundary of the Corbett Tiger Reserve. Its preferred habitat is grassy plains, scrub jungle with short bushes and scattered trees. Commonly occurring in the agricultural land, it rarely ventures into dense jungle. In Corbett, it prefers to stay close to open riverbeds and forested streams.
Diurnal in its behaviour, the Bluebull is known to attain a shoulder height of 4 feet 11 inches and a head-and-body length of 6 feet 11 inches. The males weigh 109-288 kg and females 100-213 kg. Males are larger than females and support darker bluish colour to their coats, giving name to the animal. Bluebull is a robust creature and occurs in abundance in its habitat.
This pair of Bluebull was recorded by the naturalists of Jim’s Jungle Retreat in a forested riverbed on the southern boundary of Corbett Tiger Reserve.
Bluebull – The largest Asian antelope
